A new landmark tower for Kunming's central business district

The China Overseas Tower is the centerpiece of a mixed-use development in the heart of Kunming's new Central Business District.  Strategically located near major thoroughfares, subway connections, and a planned central park—set to become the largest in the country—the tower is part of a live-work community that includes a residential and service apartment tower, all sharing a unified design language. As part of Kunming's urban master plan, the China Overseas Tower will become a landmark, contributing to the city's growth and revitalizing the surrounding community as Kunming’s most promising financial and business hub. 

Inspiration from the natural world

Standing 220 meters tall, the tower is designed with inspiration from Yunnan province's iconic cultural symbol—the peacock. Its serrated facade, resembling the intricate folds of feathers, creates a shimmering effect as sunlight plays on the building’s surface. The serration, which runs in two opposite directions and meets at a central groove on each side, breaks down the scale of the facade and enhances the building’s dynamic appearance. Rising from a transparent, weightless lobby, the folds stretch skyward, fanning out at the top, and evoke a sense of infinite growth. Vertical caps and fins accentuate the building’s height, further emphasizing its towering presence in the skyline. 

Maximizing efficiency 

Enclosed by this dynamic facade is a rigorous plan that fulfills all criteria of Class A international standards. The efficient core and logical layout achieve high usability, functionality and economic efficiency. Serration of the facade creates alcoves on the interior, providing wide-angle views in similar fashion as bay windows. The design of the façade and building systems are tuned to take best advantage of the local climate to optimize user experience as well as energy conservation. Integrated operable windows maximize the use of natural ventilation, celebrating Kunming’s reputation as “the City of Eternal Spring”.